2005 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1987 Talbot Horizon
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Talbot Horizon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Talbot Horizon would be higher. At 1,311 cc, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 1987 Talbot Horizon. (57 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1987 Talbot Horizon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 440 kg more than 1987 Talbot Horizon. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mazda RX-8 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2005 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Talbot Horizon, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (222 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Talbot Horizon. (91 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Talbot Horizon. 2005 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 1987 Talbot Horizon has manual transmission. 1987 Talbot Horizon will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda RX-8 | 1987 Talbot Horizon | |
| Make | Mazda | Talbot |
| Model | RX-8 | Horizon |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1311 cc | 1117 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 57 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 91 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 47 L |
